Swimming and Skin

Swimming is a fantastic way to stay fit and have fun, but the chlorine in pools and salt in the ocean can take a toll on your skin. Without the right skincare routine, frequent swimming can lead to dryness, irritation, and even long-term damage. A pastime enjoyed by many around the world, many will benefit from learning how to take care of oneself while enjoying this aquatic activity. 

What causes skin damage while swimming?

Chlorine is a chemical commonly used in pools to kill bacteria and other harmful microorganisms. However, a side effect of chlorine is that it removes the natural oils from your skin and hair, leading to dryness, irritation, and discoloration. Chlorine can cause dryness, itching, redness, and a rash called chlorine rash. Exposure to chlorine can also exacerbate conditions like eczema and dermatitis. In addition, outdoor swimming can expose your skin to unhealthy amounts of UV light, leading to sunburns and even skin cancer in some extreme cases. 

Potential remedies

To keep your skin healthy while swimming, follow these simple steps. Before swimming, apply a water-resistant sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect against sunburn. After swimming, rinse off promptly to remove chlorine or salt water, which can dry out your skin. Then, apply a moisturizer to help your skin stay hydrated. Drinking water regularly also keeps your skin hydrated from the inside. By following these steps, you can enjoy swimming while keeping your skin in good condition.

Conclusion

Protecting your skin during swimming is essential to prevent damage from sun exposure, chlorine, and other environmental factors. By following recommended practices such as applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and maintaining proper skincare routines, you can enjoy swimming while minimizing the risk of skin issues. Implementing these preventive measures will help keep your skin healthy and resilient throughout your swimming activities.

References

1. The best sun-protective clothing. (2023, June 1). https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/the-best-sun-protective-clothing
2. Does Pool Water Affect your Skin and Hair? (2024, June 17). https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/the-best-sun-protective-clothing
3. Sun-damaged skin. (2023, December 4). https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/sun-damaged-skin-a-to-z
4. Swimming and Skincare: How to Protect Your Skin and Hair from Chlorine Effects. (2024, August 1). https://borealisderm.com/blog/swimming-and-skincare-how-to-protect-your-skin-and-hair-from-chlorine-effects/
5. Swimming and skin: What to know if a child has eczema. (2023, May 15). https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/swimming-and-skin-what-to-know-if-a-child-has-eczema-202305152935
6. What’s the Best Skin Care for Swimmers? (2019, December 17). https://www.usms.org/fitness-and-training/articles-and-videos/articles/whats-the-best-skin-care-for-swimmers
7. What Is Chlorine Rash? (2024, May 17). https://www.verywellhealth.com/chlorine-rash-4174222